SA Trippin': A Tex-Pat Returns to the Alamo City

When I left San Antonio for Seattle in 2009, I kept tabs on the changing landscape of San Antonio’s food scene from afar and was delighted by new bars and restaurants that I’d get to try on my visits. Since moving back home to San Antonio in 2016, I can say with con dence that San Antonio is becoming a destination for foodies. Here are a few suggestions for food-lovers visiting the Alamo City. – Hannah Lorence

Central/Eastside

The Alamo Heights neighborhood is bursting with drool-inducing restaurants. To satisfy your healthy food cravings, Revolucion Coffee + Juice is a must. You won’t be disappointed by their smoothie bowls or coffee for that matter. They serve a full menu and the modern ambiance is a perfect destination for a meeting or solo work sesh. They also have a Southtown location.

For a great dinner option, the Neapolitan-style pizza at Dough has become a neighborhood favorite for residents in central San Antonio, and their long wait times on the weekends are proof. Make sure to secure a reservation at this authentic spot if you’re going for dinner on the weekend. Don’t miss their seasonal burratas or wine selection. Their list is just as great as the pizza, so you won’t want to pass on the perfect pairing.

For a more upscale Mexican food option, check out Paloma Blanca. Fortunately, upscale doesn’t have to mean expensive at this place. The menu includes an excellent happy hour where you can order nachos, chips & queso or street tacos for only $5 and a house margarita for $3.50.

Northwest Side

The west side of San Antonio has really grown in the last decade, especially when it comes to good eateries. For the best ramen, Nama Ramen is a go-to. The locally owned restaurant has really drawn in a crowd for some traditional Asian fare.

If you’re going to enjoy the ramen, be sure to check out Kuma right next door.
The owners decided to leverage their popularity by enticing their patrons
to indulge in some ice cream as well, but it’s ice cream with a twist - served up in soft Hong Kong wafe with fun toppings like mochi and other non- traditional options.

For expertly crafted cocktails, check out Sangria on the Burg. Their sangria concoctions are a thing to behold and are a great compliment to their locally sourced menu with sliders and tacos that has put a lot of thought into their offerings. Right near the Medical Center this happening spot is a favorite among college students, but the word is getting out and this hidden gem won’t stay hidden for long!

Southtown

The Southtown neighborhood has found its stride and drawn in much of the downtown crowds with its elevated dining options. Chef Johnny Hernandez has undoubtedly made his mark on the city, but my personal favorite of his is the brunch at The Frutería. The fresh fruit cocktails are a perfect reprieve from the hot Texas weather, and the traditional Mexican breakfast fare will make you want to lick your plate clean.

For a modern and classy vibe, Feast is a good spot. The outdoor patio faces the beautiful King William neighborhood and the interior is just as stunning. The courses are designed for sharing, even though it can be a hard concept to grasp when the food is so delicious. Right next door is the Asian fusion joint, Hot Joy, where you’ll nd delicious Asian-inspired cocktails and some unique menu offerings that blend a few different cuisines. If you plan ahead, you can make their Tuesday night happy hour or enjoy half-off wings on Wednesday night.

Rick Cortez

The Pearl/North Downtown

Last, but certainly not least is the darling of the foodie community in this South Texas city: the Pearl. The small square footage doesn’t limit this foodie paradise where you’ll nd good eats with only a few steps in between each store front. A few blocks north of the Pearl itself you can nd hole in the wall spots with delicious Mexican food like El Milagrito Cafe (which only serves breakfast and lunch) and Barbaro, in the Tobin Hill/Monte Vista area, is a favorite American cuisine spot with a hipster vibe and an Old Fashioned that’s hard to beat. You can even get it at a discounted price during their happy hour which is everyday from 3 to 6 p.m.

In the Pearl proper, Cured is an excellent choice for Happy Hour, with seasonal
craft cocktails and $.50 fried quail legs to munch on while you peruse the excellent discounted or full-priced items on the menu.

The Granary ‘Cue & Brew is a must-try if you are looking for traditional barbecue for lunch, or you want to enjoy a contemporary barbecue concept for dinner. Besides receiving countless accolades locally and nationally, the beautifully restored home-turned restaurant provides all of the comforts of southern cuisine, with a delicious twist! For an excellent lunch option, Bakery Lorraine serves salads, sandwiches, and beautifully assembled pastries all day.